Description This drawing represents the variety of benefits that arise from living close to nature. The brown is the earthy quality of a simple life. The purple is the joy that comes from growing your own food. The blue is the hope that each seedling contains. The orange is the health, both in body and spirit, that arises from living in harmony with the earth. The yellow is the life giving sun.

Juan Garcia, Binghamton, NYMember Since July 2010Artist Statement I grew up in extreme poverty in Santo Domingo. By necessity, people in countries like the Dominican Republic have a close affiliation with the rhythyms of the natural world. Survival often depends on understanding this world, respecting its power, and living in harmony with it. When I came to the United States many years ago, I was surprised at how few people possess a similar lifestyle. My art reflects the simplicity of nature, and my strong desire to live a natural life.